Tag Archives: hatchback

Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept Revealed, Previews Future Electric Hot Hatch

Volkswagen is preparing to introduce an electric version of its iconic hot hatchback with the retro-themed ID. GTI Concept. The concept car, showcased at IAA Mobility 2023, aims to combine the 48-year history of combustion-powered GTI models with Volkswagen’s electric future.

If you find the red car pictured here familiar, you might be thinking of the VW ID. 2all Concept that made its debut earlier this year. This similarity is intentional, as Volkswagen designers took inspiration from the GTI while creating that concept. As a result, you’ll find many similar features in the ID. GTI Concept, albeit with black and red accents. It features sportier fascias at the front and rear, wheels inspired by the Mk1 GTI, darker taillights, a wing on top of the hatch, and black trim around the windows. The grille is also blacked out with red trim, and the GTI branding can be found throughout the car.

Although information about the powertrain is limited, Volkswagen reveals that the ID. GTI Concept is equipped with a single-motor, high-performance powertrain. It also comes with an electronic differential lock for the front wheels. The car offers a wide range of customization through the GTI Experience Control, allowing drivers to adjust various settings such as suspension, steering feel, sound, and even create simulated shift points to emulate older GTI models.

Inside, the retro theme continues, not only with the plaid seats but also with the digital interior featuring dual screens carried over from the ID. 2all. The ID. GTI Concept offers various settings, including classic gauge displays, allowing drivers to recreate the experience of driving older GTI models. Additionally, when driving on a track like the Nurburgring, an augmented heads-up display can project a layout of the track on the lower corner of the windshield. Meanwhile, the passenger can keep track of lap times with the data also projected onto the windshield.

Fisker confirms a high-performance version of the Pear EV

Fisker, the American EV start-up, has officially announced the development of a high-performance variant of its electric hatchback, the Fisker Pear. This version, known as the Pear Extreme, is expected to deliver impressive performance due to its dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain.

Although specific performance targets have not been confirmed by Fisker, it is highly anticipated that the Pear Extreme will significantly improve on the regular Pear’s claimed 0-60mph sprint time of 6.3 seconds.

For comparison, Fisker’s larger SUV model, the Fisker Ocean Extreme, features a total power output of 564bhp and 544lb ft, thanks to a 275bhp motor on each axle. This allows the 2434kg SUV to accelerate from 0-60mph in an impressive 4.0 seconds.

Industry experts at Autocar believe that the Pear Extreme will be positioned as a direct competitor to the £36,495 MG 4 XPower. The MG model is equipped with a dual-motor powertrain capable of delivering 429bhp, enabling it to sprint from 0-60mph in just 3.7 seconds. This makes it faster than the entry-level Porsche Taycan and on par with the Taycan GTS.

The Pear Extreme is also expected to feature a larger battery than the regular Pear, which currently offers a claimed range of 348 miles. However, the increased power and performance of the high-performance model may result in a reduced range compared to the standard variant.

Additionally, high-end versions of the Pear will include a solar-panelled roof, similar to the Fisker Ocean, enabling passive charging to extend the range. On the other hand, the cheapest variant of the Pear will come with a smaller battery pack, offering a claimed range of 198 miles.

Fisker predicts that the entry-level variant, a rear-wheel-drive model, will be the most popular option. It will be priced from $29,900 in the US (before incentives), approximately £23,500. However, the UK price is expected to be slightly higher due to local taxes and shipping costs from the factory in Ohio, US, operated by Taiwanese tech giant Foxconn.

Fisker Inc founder, Henrik Fisker, believes that in the next two years, people will realize that they do not necessarily need long-range capabilities, especially if they have a second car. He cites the slow sales of cars with 100- to 150-mile ranges as proof of this changing mindset.

New Hyundai i20 available from £20,770

The Hyundai i20 hatchback has undergone an update, receiving a subtle redesign, new interior technology, and improved safety features. The pricing and specifications for the updated model have now been announced.

Expected to go on sale in the third quarter of 2023, the new i20 will have a starting price of £20,770 in the UK. Hyundai hopes that these updates will help boost sales for the i20, which competes with the Seat Ibiza.

There will be three available specification levels: Advance, Premium, and Ultimate.

The Advance models come well-equipped with features such as 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, an 8.0-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, smartphone mirroring, and a leather steering wheel. Additionally, entry-level models will include a suite of safety equipment, including cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, speed warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam.

Premium models start at £22,570 and offer larger 17-inch wheels, electric mirrors, privacy glass, automatic wipers, ambient lighting, climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and an upgraded 10.25-inch touchscreen.

The top-of-the-line Ultimate model, priced at £24,070, adds keyless entry, start-stop engine functionality, a wireless phone-charging pad, a premium eight-speaker sound system from Bose, blindspot monitoring, and forward-collision assistance.

Hyundai has also streamlined the engine options for the i20. All models now come with a turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine that produces 98bhp, with the 118bhp version no longer available. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

WLTP economy figures for the i20 have yet to be confirmed by Hyundai.

BYD Trademarks New Seagull Electric Hatchback In India

The Seagull is the smallest hatchback from BYD, and could rival the Citroen eC3

BYD Seagull

  • The BYD Seagull is an entry-level electric hatchback that may come to India.

  • Its bookings are already open in China, with pre-sale prices ranging from 78,800 RMB to 95,800 RMB (approximately Rs 9 lakh to Rs 11 lakh).

  • The Seagull gets two battery pack options – 30kWh and 38 kWh – with the maximum driving range of up to 405km.

  • It could be launched in India sometime in 2024.

The BYD Seagull, the brand’s new small electric hatchback, is being registered for trademark in India. The Seagull is the smallest EV from BYD, and was showcased at the Auto Shanghai 2023 motor show. Let’s see what it may offer upon its India debut:

How does it look?

BYD Seagull

The Seagull is a 5-door electric hatchback featuring a tallboy design with sharp details. The headlight cluster looks sharp, and the design of the bumper looks aggressive. From the side, it has a somewhat sporty appeal with the rising windowline and roof-integrated spoiler. From the rear, the connected LED tail lamps further enhance its visual appeal.

Also Read: BYD’s $1 Billion Indian Investment Proposal Rejected: Here’s What Happened

Features

BYD Seagull EV cabin

Despite being an entry-level offering, it has a rich interior, like the MG Comet EV. The interior design of the BYD Seagull draws significant inspiration from the BYD Atto 3, with a similar steering wheel and dashboard layout. The Seagull features a large touchscreen that can be rotated for both portrait and landscape orientations. Also on offer is a compact digital driver’s display, and wireless charging.

Battery Pack & Range

While there is still no official information regarding its technical specifications, reports suggest that the Seagull may be equipped with a choice of  two battery packs: 30kWh and 38kWh. The former may be paired with a 74PS electric motor, while the latter is set to feature a 100PS electric motor, with driving ranges of 305 km and 405 km, respectively.

Also Check Out: These Are The 10 Upcoming Car Launches In The Second Half Of 2023

BYD Sea Lion Trademarked Too

Recognizing the future of EV sales in India, BYD has also trademarked the “Sea Lion” premium offering. Prototypes of this model have been spotted outside India and will potentially be positioned above the existing Atto 3 in the brand’s lineup.

It is expected to use the same battery pack found in the Atto 3 (a 60.48kWh unit), mated to an electric motor which produces 204PS and 310Nm. The claimed driving range could be up to 521km. It may also feature an all-wheel drivetrain with a bigger battery pack, and more range.

Expected Launch Of Seagull & Sea Lion

BYD Seagull EV rear

The BYD Seagull electric hatchback may arrive in India sometime in 2024. Its pre-sale prices in China range from 78,800 RMB to 95,800 RMB (approximately Rs 9 lakh to Rs 11 lakh). In India, the electric hatchback is expected to be priced from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.  It will rival the MG Comet EV, Tata Tiago EV, and Citroen eC3. On the other hand, the Sea Lion may arrive at a later date, with a price tag north of Rs 35 lakh (ex-showroom), perhaps as an alternative to the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Volvo XC40 Recharge.

Tata Tiago Has Achieved 500,000 Sales


Tata Tiago, the popular hatchback from Tata Motors, has reached an impressive milestone of crossing the 500,000 unit sales mark. This makes it the second Tata car to achieve this feat.

Tata Tiago

Tata Motors introduced the Tiago in 2016. Built on Tata’s X0 platform, the Tiago offered a range of in-house engines. It is manufactured at Tata’s Sanand facility in Gujarat, India. The Tiago also brought about a shift in Tata’s design philosophy, leading to the development of their current design language. Interestingly, the last 100,000 units were sold in just 15 months.

Tata Tiago NRG

In 2020, Tata launched a facelifted version of the Tiago with visual updates and compliance with the updated BS6 emission norms. Later, in 2021, Tata introduced the Tiago NRG, a crossover variant with additional features like external cladding, increased ground clearance, a new front bumper, and dual exhaust pipes. Responding to market demands, Tata further expanded the Tiago range in 2022 with the introduction of the Tiago iCNG and in 2023 with the launch of the Tiago EV, offering modern powertrain options and alternative fuel choices.

Tata Tiago EV

The Tiago’s growing popularity is reflected in the increasing number of customers opting for this hatchback. According to Tata, the average Tiago buyer is 35 years old, and the urban-rural split in sales is 60:40. Women customers are also showing a preference for the Tiago, accounting for 10 percent of the total buyers. Additionally, 71 percent of Tiago buyers in FY 2023 are purchasing their first car.

Tata Tiago Cabin

The Tiago offers a host of features, including projector headlamps, LED DRLs, 15-inch dual-tone alloys, a 7-inch touchscreen by Harman with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8-speaker sound system, and a digital instrument cluster.

In terms of safety, the Tata Tiago is considered the safest hatchback in its segment. It achieved a 4-star rating in crash tests conducted by the Global New Car Assessment Program under the Safer Cars for India initiative. The Tiago comes with dual airbags, parking camera with guidelines, tyre pressure monitoring system, ABS with EBD and corner stability control, and speed-sensitive door locks.

Tata Tiago Engine

Powering the Tiago is a 1.2-litre petrol engine that produces 86 PS @ 6,000 rpm and 113 Nm @ 3,300 rpm. With a manual transmission, Tata claims a fuel economy of 20.01 km/l, whereas the 5-speed AMT variant achieves 19.43 km/l. The Tiago also offers a CNG fuel option, providing a mileage of 26.49 km/kg. The Tiago iCNG is the most powerful CNG car in its segment and boasts segment-first features such as ‘Direct Start in CNG Mode’ and a single ECU to ensure minimal power loss when switching between petrol and CNG modes. It also includes features like Autofuel Switch Over, Thermal & Leak detection, and a Microswitch to prevent starting with an open fuel lid.

Tata Tiago Rear

The Tata Tiago’s popularity can be attributed to its updated design, well-equipped interiors, various powertrain options, and most importantly, its 4-star safety rating from GNCAP, making it one of the safest hatchbacks in India!

Read More on: Tata Tiago AMT

Cupra Born EV Hatch Spotted with Updated Front Bumper and Unique Wheel Sensors

In September 2022, the first camouflaged Cupra Born was spotted, raising questions since the electric hatchback had just debuted in May 2021. Now, new spy photos reveal that the Spanish performance brand is still testing a refreshed model variant, keeping its secrets hidden.

Although it seems early for a mid-cycle redesign, Cupra is clearly reconsidering the looks of the Born. The front clip is completely covered in camouflage, but most of the changes are seen on the lower bumper. This area now features vertical intakes at the corners and new slats that likely surround a modified grille opening beneath an adjusted nose.

Citroen C3 Completes 1 Year In India: Here’s A Recap


The hatchback is one of the most stylish and competitively priced models on sale, with an EV derivative on offer as well

Citroen C3

The Citroen C3 has completed its first anniversary in India. The hatchback was the French carmaker’s second and most-affordable model for our country. While it essentially is sized to compete with premium hatchbacks like the Maruti Baleno and Hyundai i20, its prices put it on par with more affordable cars like the Hyundai Grand i10 Nios and Maruti Swift.

So, here’s a recap of the Citroen C3 and the changes it has been through over the year:

Price Change

Variant

Launch Price

Latest Price

Difference

Live

Rs 5.71 lakh

Rs 6.16 lakh

Rs 45,000

Feel

Rs 6.63 lakh

Rs 7.08 lakh

Rs 45,000

Feel DT

Rs 6.78 lakh

Rs 7.23 lakh

Rs 45,000

Feel DT Turbo

Rs 8.06 lakh

RS 8.28 lakh

Rs 22,000

Shine

Rs 7.60 lakh

Shine DT

Rs 7.75 lakh

Shine DT Turbo

Rs 8.80 lakh

  • The Live and Feel variants have grown costlier by Rs 45,000, while the Feel Turbo sees a hike of Rs 22,000 since its launch.

  • The C3 now ranges from Rs 6.16 lakh to Rs 8.80 lakh (ex-showroom).

New Top-End Variant

Citroen C3

Citroen has added a new top-spec Shine variant to the C3’s lineup. This variant adds electrically adjustable ORVMs, fog lamps, 15-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, connected car tech features, day/night IRVM, rear parking camera, and a rear wiper with washer.

Feature Additions

Citroen C3 Interior

The turbo variants exclusively get electronic stability programme (ESP), hill-hold assist, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and idle-engine start/stop as standard.

Also Read: Citroen eC3 vs Tata Tiago EV: Space & Practicality Comparison

Safety Ratings Out

Citroen C3 Latin NCAP

The made-in-Brazil Citroen C3 failed the Latin NCAP crash tests. The crash tests were performed on the Brazil-spec model, where it scored zero stars in the assessment. It scored 31 percent (12.21 points) in adult occupation protections and 12 percent for child protection.

BS6 Phase 2 Updates

The hatchback, just like other cars on sale, received the BS6 phase 2 emission norms update earlier in 2023. The C3 is offered with 82PS 1.2-litre petrol and 110PS turbo-petrol engines, respectively. The naturally aspirated option gets a 5-speed manual transmission, while the turbo unit gets a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Gets An Electric Version Too!

Citroen eC3

In February 2023, Citroen also introduced an electric version of the C3 hatchback. It looks identical to the ICE version, with a few eC3 badges, but minus the exhaust pipe. It gets a 29.2kWh battery pack which claims a driving range of up to 320 kilometres. The eC3 is priced from Rs 11.50 lakh to Rs 12.43 lakh (ex-showroom).

Future Changes

In future, we can expect the C3 to finally get the choice of an automatic transmission. The Brazilian-spec model gets a 6-speed torque converter automatic, which is likely to debut on the India-spec C3 too.

Read More on : Citroen C3 on road price

Thursday Throwback: Exploring The MPV Predecessors Of The Maruti Invicto


Maruti’s best sellers from the hatchback and SUV segments make it easy to overlook the brand’s dominance in the MPV space

The Maruti Invicto MPV is set to launch in July, and it will be the most expensive Maruti on sale to date, with an expected price of around Rs 19 lakh and up (ex-showroom). Maruti is the most popular carmaker in India, and even in the MPV segment, it’s a leader with the Ertiga and Eeco. While we expect the Invicto to help Maruti gain a foothold in the premium MPV space, the brand has a long history in the MPV segment.

We will take a trip down India’s automotive history and remember all the Maruti MPVs that came before the Invicto and learn about the carmaker’s journey in this segment.

Maruti Omni

Maruti Omni

In 1984, right after the launch of the Maruti 800, the Maruti Van was introduced. It was later renamed Omni in 1988.

The Omni became an instant hit, not only in the commercial segment but also with families. Its simple concept of transporting maximum passengers at minimal cost made it highly successful.

Interesting Fact: The Omni was launched for under Rs 1 lakh in 1984!

Maruti Omni

In 1998, the Omni received its first facelift with subtle design changes inside and out. It continued with the same engine as the Maruti 800 and manual transmission. Another facelift was introduced 7 years later, and it remained largely unchanged until its discontinuation in 2019.

After 35 years of service, the Omni retired, leaving its duties to the Eeco.

Maruti Versa

Maruti Versa

In 2001, Maruti launched the Versa as a better-equipped alternative to the Omni. It had a starting price of around Rs 4 lakh (ex-showroom), which was considered expensive at that time.

The Versa aimed to blend utility with comfort while accommodating 6-7 passengers. However, its price and basic van-like styling didn’t appeal to buyers. The more attractive Esteem sedan, priced only slightly higher, was preferred by those considering buying the Versa.

The Maruti Versa featured a modest 1.3-litre petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It had decent equipment for its time, including premium fabric upholstery, adjustable steering column, rear AC vents, power windows, central locking, and adjustable seats.

In 2009, the Versa was phased out, and the carmaker learned the lesson of simplicity and affordability.

Also Read: Top 10 Indian Celebrity Brand Ambassadors For Indian Cars!

Maruti Eeco

Maruti Eeco

In 2010, the Eeco was introduced as the successor to the Versa. It was essentially a facelifted version of the Versa, maintaining the same van-like appearance but with stripped-down features and comforts. It was designed to be an affordable option for transporting goods or people.

With the removal of several features from the Versa, the Eeco came at a very aggressive price. Starting at around Rs 2.7 lakh (ex-showroom), it was priced at half of the Versa’s cost. The Eeco lacked vital features like power steering, power windows, central locking, airbags, and AC (optional).

The simplicity of its design made the Eeco rugged, spacious for cargo, and cost-effective, leading to its success in the commercial segment. It is widely used as taxis, ambulances, and school vans among lower economic sections, and as cargo vans. The Eeco is one of India’s best-selling cars, averaging around 9,000 units per month.

Over the 13 years of being on sale, its exterior remains identical to the original version, with slight interior refreshments. The only updates have been to meet the latest regulations.

Maruti Ertiga

Maruti Ertiga 2012

In 2012, Maruti launched its first “proper” MPV, the Ertiga, at the Auto Expo. It was positioned as a Life Utility Vehicle (LUV) and was priced at Rs 5.89 lakh. The Ertiga featured a three-row configuration and had a stylish look with extended hatchback-like design.

The Ertiga was also the first Maruti MPV to offer a diesel engine, which was known for its efficiency of around 20kmpl. It also came with a new 1.4-litre petrol engine that provided a refined driving experience. The Ertiga offered car-like comfort and driving characteristics, a significant improvement over the Eeco.

With seating for seven people and reasonable comfort, the Ertiga quickly gained popularity among buyers seeking an affordable family car with manageable proportions. It faced minimal competition and attracted demand from private buyers as well as fleets. In just 4 years, it had crossed the 2.25 lakh sales mark.

FUN FACT – The Maruti Ertiga was one of the earliest MPVs to receive a decent 3-star safety rating.

In 2018, the Ertiga received a comprehensive facelift, which included more efficient petrol and diesel engines, additional features, and a more stylish appeal. The petrol variant also offered a 4-speed automatic transmission, enhancing its practicality. By this time, it had already become a segment leader with over 2.25 lakh units sold.

In 2018, a new generation of Ertiga was introduced based on Suzuki’s new HEARTECT platform. It retained the diesel engine but introduced a new 1.5-litre petrol engine. The new Ertiga featured several improved features, including dual airbags, a rear camera, a touchscreen infotainment system, ESP, and hill-hold function. The pricing of the new generation ranged from Rs 7.44 lakh to Rs 13.90 lakh (ex-showroom).

In 2020, with the implementation of BS6 emission norms, the diesel option was discontinued for the Ertiga. The latest mild facelift took place in 2022, and the Ertiga continues to be a segment leader in the MPV space.

Maruti XL6

Maruti XL6

As the design of the Ertiga began to look outdated, Maruti saw an opportunity for a better-looking but still affordable compact MPV to be sold through its premium Nexa dealerships. The XL6 was introduced in 2019 as a more stylish, premium, and comfortable version of the Ertiga. It is strictly a six-seater, unlike the seven-seat Ertiga.

At the launch, the XL6 was priced at around Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) and was available in two fully-loaded variants. It offered a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a choice of manual and automatic transmissions. In 2022, it received a mild facelift, refreshing its design and features. With several additions over the Ertiga and a more stylish appearance, the XL6 can be considered an upgrade in the MPV space.

Maruti Invicto

Maruti Invicto MPV

The Maruti Invicto is essentially a rebadged version of the Toyota Innova Hycross, with slightly different looks. It is the result of a collaboration between Suzuki and Toyota to exchange cars, platforms, and technologies.

The Invicto will be a premium offering with features like a panoramic sunroof, a 10-inch touchscreen system, wireless charger, ventilated front seats, and second-row powered Ottoman seats. It will also be the first Maruti car to feature the radar-based ADAS safety feature.

The Invicto will be powered by the Innova’s 2-litre petrol-hybrid engine, known for its efficiency of 23.24kmpl. It is one of Maruti’s most powerful powertrains introduced in the last decade.

Final Thoughts

Maruti has been known for its high-volume models, except for its initial Nexa offerings. However, the brand has expanded its image by introducing feature-rich products that compete globally and are in high demand.

The Invicto represents how Maruti has learned from its past and established itself as a multi-faceted brand. In terms of MPVs, Maruti offers a range from the basic Eeco to a premium MPV with a justifiable price tag of around Rs 20 lakh and higher.

History of the Volkswagen Golf – picture special

The Volkswagen Golf has become a benchmark in the world of hatchbacks. It has continuously evolved over the years, making it one of the most capable and versatile cars on the market. Despite all the changes, it still retains its original character.

The first generation of the Golf, known as the Mk1, was introduced in 1974. At that time, the hatchback genre was still in its early stages. The Golf played a significant role in shaping the hatchback market into what it is today.

Now, 46 years later, we have reached the eighth-generation model. Let’s take a look at how Volkswagen transformed a humble hatchback into an iconic car.

Vw 53

The Golf was designed as a front-engined, front-wheel drive replacement for the Beetle. Its sleek lines were created by renowned designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The Golf’s instant success can be seen in the fact that one million units had already been produced by October 1976.

While the Golf started as a practical family car, a group of passionate VW engineers turned it into a performance car. This led to the creation of the Golf GTI in the late 1970s, igniting the hot hatch trend that continues today.

VW’s in-house design team updated Giugiaro’s design for the longer and wider Mk2 Golf, which debuted in 1983. It sold an impressive 6.3 million units before being replaced by the all-new Mk3 in 1991.

The Mk3 Golf won the 1992 European Car of the Year award, succeeding the Mk2 Golf which lost to the Peugeot 205 and Fiat Uno. The more luxurious and expensive Mk4 was introduced in 1997, featuring a softer and rounder design. It was followed by the larger and faster Mk5 in 2003, which received subtle updates for the Mk6 in 2008.

In addition to the standard hatchback, there have also been estate and convertible versions of the Golf. The Golf Cabriolet, with its distinctive basket-handle rollover bar (later removed in the Mk6 Cabrio), was originally produced by Karmann on a dedicated assembly line.

Hyundai Exter Has These 5 Additional Features Over The Grand i10 Nios


The Hyundai Exter does also have a few things in common with its hatchback sibling

Hyundai Exter and Grand i10 Nios

We have recently received detailed images of the cabin of the Hyundai Exter. The automaker has also confirmed several features that will be available with the micro SUV. As the Exter is positioned above the Grand i10 Nios in the lineup, it offers new features compared to its platform sibling.

Let’s take a look at the top five features that the Exter offers over the Grand i10 Nios:

Digitised Driver’s Display

Grand i10 Nios’s instrument cluster

Hyundai has equipped the Exter with the same digitised instrument cluster found in the facelifted Venue. It also comes with a coloured TFT MID in the center, displaying vital information such as tire pressures, odometer reading, and distance to empty. On the other hand, the Grand i10 Nios only features a coloured TFT display in the center of its two analogue dials.

Six Airbags As Standard

Hyundai Exter cabin

The facelifted Grand i10 Nios does offer up to six airbags, with four as standard. However, Hyundai has gone the extra mile and made six airbags standard in the Exter. This also gives the Exter an advantage over its direct rival, the Tata Punch.

Dual-camera Dashcam

Hyundai Exter dashcam

The Venue N Line was the first Hyundai car in India to come with a dashcam setup as a standard feature, rather than an accessory. Hyundai has now confirmed that the Exter will be equipped with a dual-display unit, which will be useful in emergency situations and for recording trips or documenting long journeys.

Also See: Facelifted Hyundai i20 N Line Caught On Camera For The First Time

Single-pane Sunroof

Hyundai Exter sunroof

The inclusion of a single-pane sunroof sets the new entry-level SUV from Hyundai apart from not only the Grand i10 Nios but also the Punch. It may even be the smallest offering in India equipped with a sunroof.

Semi-leatherette Upholstery

Hyundai Exter semi-leatherette upholstery

In contrast to the fabric seats found in the top-spec variants of the Grand i10 Nios, the Exter will come with semi-leatherette upholstery. While the Exter has an all-black cabin theme, the hatchback also offers the option of a dual-tone interior.

Related: Hyundai Exter: Should You Wait For It Or Go For One Of Its Rivals?

Key Similarities

Although Hyundai has given the Exter a significantly different cabin and exterior design, it still shares several key features with the Grand i10 Nios.

The Exter shares the same 8-inch touchscreen system, wireless phone charging, cruise control, auto climate control, and steering wheel with the Grand i10 Nios. It also has the exact same wheelbase and powertrain options: a 1.2-litre petrol engine with the choice of manual and AMT, as well as a CNG alternative.

Launch And Price Update

Hyundai Exter rear

The Hyundai Exter is set to launch on July 10. It is expected to be priced from Rs 6 lakh (ex-showroom). Along with the Tata Punch, the Exter will also compete against the Citroen C3, Maruti Fronx, Nissan Magnite, and Renault Kiger.

Read More on : Hyundai Grand i10 Nios AMT